National Chambal Sanctuary

National Chambal Sanctuary covers 5,400 km areas in the northern India and known for the endangered crocodiles), the red crowned roof turtle and the Ganga’s river dolphin. The park is located between the three cities – Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh. In the sanctuary, the calm Chambal River cuts through networks of narrow valley and hills with numerous sandy beaches.

History

The National Chambal Sanctuary was established in 30 Sep 1978. As it falls in 3 different states of India, so a declaration has been made by individual states for territory - Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. It is reserved under India's Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. The sanctuary is managed by the Forest Department.

Wildlife

The endangered crocodiles and the red-crowned roof turtles are the main attraction of the sanctuary. Along with the endangered Ganges River dolphins are also the chief species of the sanctuary. Other animals contain striped hyena, smooth-coated otter and Indian wolf. Chambal has almost 8 to 26 uncommon turtle species containing crowned river turtle, lined roof turtle and narrow-headed soft-shell turtle. Apart from it, you can-not miss to see - Langoor, Golden jackal, fox, palm civet, jungle cat, wild boar, sambar, blackbuck, squirrel, porcupine and others.

Traveler’s attractions

There are many opportunities present for travelers to nature watching at the National Chambal Sanctuary. The best idea for sightseeing and photography of crocodiles and dolphins is by hiring a river boat, available at many places along the river. A boat tour will also provide you a number of points to view of water, birds and landscapes. Walking tracks in the narrow valleys and along the river provides you great chance for close encounter of a variety of floras and faunas in the sanctuary.

There are vehicles available at the entry points of Chambal Sanctuary that takes you straight in the forest for an excursion. Travelers may discover Ater Fort built by the Bhadauria kings Badan Singh in 1664 - 1698, a beautiful landmark and historical site located at 35 km away from Bhind. The fort is sited on the banks of the Chambal River.

There are a number of forest guest houses at Bah and Chakkar Nagar, where you can make your stay or there are also many commercial hotels at Agra, Etawah and Bah that offers your good facilities at some costs.

How to Reach

Air : The nearest airport is located at Agra
Rail : The nearest railway station is located at Agra
Road : Mathura offers you a major road networks with a number of buses